Tim Howard, Clint Dempsey and Michael Bradley Join USMNT for Gold Cup

The United States Men’s National Team A-listers have arrived for the knockout round of the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup. It was announced today that Colorado Rapids goalkeeper Tim Howard, Toronto FC midfielder Michael Bradley, Portland Timbers midfielder Darlington Nagbe, Toronto forward Jozy Altidore and Seattle Sounders forward Clint Dempsey have all been added, as the USMNT Head Coach Bruce Arena made six roster changes.

The U.S.A. heads to Philadelphia following a 3-0 win against Nicaragua, a match in which Arena said they made things “difficult” for themselves.

Yes, the Stars and Stripes definitely could have won prettier during group play, but they still finished first in Group B of the Gold Cup and will now take on El Salvador in Wednesday’s Quarterfinal in Philadelphia at Lincoln Financial Field.

Kickoff is 8 pm central. The winner of Costa Rica-Panama awaits on the other side of the bracket.

The knockout round means it’s now time to bring in the big guns, and the aforementioned additions bring a ton of experience. It was a largely J.V. group that got the USA here, opening with a 1-1 tie against Panama, wasting a two-goal lead against Martinique before winning 3-2 and of course the most impressive showing against Nicaragua.

It was indeed difficult at times, but perhaps all the added experience will make the next round an easier road.

Bradley, Howard, Altidore and Dempsey all have more than 100 caps each. The foursome all took place in World Cup qualifying, and they will be joined on the UMSNT by FC Dallas goalkeeper Jesse Gonzalez, the sixth player added to the roster. Gonzalez will participate in his first tournament since having his affiliation from Mexico to the U.S. approved by FIFA.

“We have added some experienced players to the roster that can help us in the Knockout Round of the Gold Cup,’ reads a statement attributed to Bruce Arena. “The players leaving all made a good impression, and I’m optimistic for their future with the National Team program.”